Every week, I look at the shifts shaping the market — what’s changing, where momentum is building, and what sales professionals need to keep in focus. There’s no shortage of headlines, but what matters is how we translate those signals into confident action.

Here’s what stood out last week.

August 18, 2025

CONSUMER PRICES RISE 2.7% ANNUALLY IN JULY, LESS THAN EXPECTED AMID TARIFF WORRIES. The consumer price index increased a seasonally adjusted 0.2% for the month and 2.7% on a 12-month basis, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Tuesday. Core inflation — which excludes food and energy — rose 0.3% month-over-month and 3.1% year-over-year, the biggest monthly increase since January and the fastest annual pace since February, driven largely by a 0.2% increase in shelter costs. Futures markets now strongly anticipate a Fed rate cut in September, with traders also betting on another potential reduction in October. Full story from CNBC →

Why this matters: Despite core inflation running hotter than expected, housing costs — one of the largest drivers of inflation — are showing signs of easing. The year-over-year increase in shelter costs matched the lowest annual growth rate since October 2021. If broader economic indicators continue to soften and inflation remains under control, there may be potential for further interest rate improvements. This delicate economic balancing act is already influencing market expectations, with future rate cuts likely being priced in. Clients are seeing these headlines and seeking clarity on how they impact affordability. It’s essential to be prepared to explain the connection between inflation, Federal Reserve policy, and borrowing costs, and to emphasize the importance of staying proactive during periods of uncertainty. 

AVERAGE RATE ON A 30-YEAR MORTGAGE DROPS TO LOWEST LEVEL SINCE OCTOBER. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 6.58% from 6.63% the week prior, Freddie Mac reported Thursday. This marks the fourth straight week of declines and the lowest level since October 2024. A year ago, the average rate was 6.49%. While some economists expect mortgage rates to remain above 6% through year-end, forecasts by Realtor.com and Fannie Mae project the average rate will ease to around 6.4% by the end of this year. Full story from ABC News → 

Why this matters: When it comes to mortgage rates, even small movements can have a meaningful impact. Four consecutive weeks of rate declines can provide prospective buyers with increased purchasing power and may prompt those who were previously hesitant to re-enter the market. Shifts in affordability, even modest ones, can reignite interest among buyers who may have felt priced out. Staying attuned to these changes allows you to proactively support clients in making informed decisions. 

JUNE SINGLE-FAMILY PERMITS SLUMP, MULTIFAMILY GAINS. Single-family housing permits declined for the sixth consecutive month in June, falling 5.6% year-over-year to 485,935 nationwide. Regional performance varied: the Midwest posted a modest 1.8% year-over-year increase through June, while the Northeast, South, and West experienced declines of 1.7%, 6.5% and 8.1%, respectively. In contrast, multifamily permits rose 2.9% year-over-year, driven by strong gains in the Midwest (+22.4%), West (+8.0%), and South (+7.1%). The Northeast saw a sharp 30% decline, largely attributed to significant reductions in the New York metro area. Full story from EYEONHOUSING → 

Why this matters: While 2024 saw a rebound in new single-family home construction, momentum has moderated in 2025. Builders are proceeding with caution amid ongoing economic uncertainty, labor constraints, and rising inventory levels. As a result, supply in the single-family segment may tighten further, reinforcing the importance of helping buyers act decisively when the right opportunity arises. On the other hand, multifamily continues to demonstrate resilience. 

THE BOTTOM LINE: Inflation is steady, mortgage rates are drifting lower, and homebuilders are recalibrating. These economic indicators reflect evolving trends in consumer confidence, affordability, and housing supply. Your focus this week: maintain a sharp perspective, be the voice of clarity, and help clients navigate the noise. In a complex market, lead with steady insight and strategic context. 

Disclaimer: this is a compilation of industry news from trade media and industry groups; it does not share any forward-looking predictions or projections.